Early English Banjo

 

These pages from Metzler & Co.'s Tutor for the Banjo (London, 1877) provide contemporary stringing and tuning guidance, and practical diagrams of the left-hand finger positions for both gGDGBD (raised 4th) and gGCGBD 6-string tuning. Note that in regard to Metzler's guidance on p.6 to fit guitar strings, that 19th century gut strings for guitar pre-c.1885 were of a different gauge than those commonly used on later guitars. This difference is significant in the effect on tone and feel. This is a factor to take into consideration if attaining accurate period tone and playability is intended. Another aspect in regard to accurate period sound is pitch. Standardising pitch at A4=440hz. was not agreed in principle internationally until 1896. Prior to this date pitch varied considerably not only between, but also within, countries. This subject in relation to the banjo is covered in depth in one of our research papers. However in brief, for practicality for players interested in h...

  Arthur Tilley began self-publishing his Concert Banjoist series in 1885/6 to coincide with his 1885 Inventions Exhibition medal success in London. John Alvey Turner & Co. subsequently acquired copyright and, from 1887, became the publisher of the full series. This is an example of Tilley's original self-published cover format for issue No.1. The banjos illustrated are a pair of Tilley's 1885 patented metal rim 'Matchless' model 5-string that was awarded the Gold Medal in the Inventions Exhibition, Kensington, London.